A superior patient and guest experience begins at the lobby and other wait spaces within the hospital. Tired and worn-out furniture is off-putting and makes visitors question the level of care. Chipped and scuffed chair legs and arms are the introduction to many hospitals, and we all know first impressions are lasting. In this blog, I am going to show you three pieces of furniture (Valdina Flex – Short Back, Valdina Bariatric, and Valdina Center Linking Table) in three different types of wait spaces providing stunning and welcoming looks. (Kwalu furniture seen in the images from the Sabanera Health Center, winner of the HCD Healthcare Environment Award)
Main lobby seating
The main hospital lobby in many locations is large and needs to accommodate all types of groups. From one to 3 or 4, the seating options should make it possible for all in that group to sit together or as close as possible. Bariatric seating in the hospital lobby should work not only for larger individuals but also for two average sized people who want to sit together. But most importantly, that seating should not draw attention to itself or the user. It should integrate effortlessly with the other seating in the space.
Specialty healthcare receptions
Cancer care, primary care, and women’s health care clinics are just a few of the specialty care offices located in the nation’s hospitals. The wait spaces at these locations are smaller than the main lobby. These smaller spaces have a large turnover of patients daily and need furniture that can be cleaned often. The Valdina line of products is made of Kwalu Classic material, which looks like wood but is better in that it won’t scuff or chip, is easily maintained with all healthcare cleaning chemicals, and is guaranteed to look new for 10 years.
Pediatric healthcare waiting
Pediatric healthcare spaces must exude comfort and calm. Parents need to feel cared for in these waiting areas, as much as their children. Furniture that is cleanable at a high level is a must for developing immune systems. And the Valdina Bariatric seats allow a parent and small child to sit together. Designs in these spaces should utilize vibrant color choices. It adds a little fun to what could be, for kids, a somewhat daunting place.